Kaizer Chiefs: Fernando da Cruz opens up about players on his team

Kaizer Chiefs boss Fernando Da Cruz acknowledges the talent possessed by both individuals, yet notes that neither can don the club's colors until they clear distinct hurdles. Mayo, sidelined by injury since the campaign began, is now nearing complete readiness for competitive action.

• read more: Orlando Pirates beat Kaizer Chiefs (2-1) to go top of the Premiership

Fernando da Cruz discusses the situation of his two players

Fernando Da Cruz has indicated that Mayo is edging nearer to a return, though the coach cautioned against exposing him to punishing encounters such as the Soweto Derby.

Speaking to reporters following his side's 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby, Da Cruz remarked: "Mayo is not far, he's a quality player but for this game he was not physically ready to play this type of game."

The French tactician went on to explain that his Nigerian forward Ighodaro has yet to fully absorb the tactical blueprint being implemented at Naturena.

"He must walk into the game, and with Ighodaro, he needs to understand the game model, so we'll work with him," Da Cruz stated.

"He can be another solution. When we play teams like Pirates, we need to be physically ready. You see the last 20 minutes, they are full of intensity, they introduce fresh players with quality, so we must be ready."

Meanwhile, Amakhosi shift their attention away from the Betway Premiership and toward cup competition. Chiefs will host Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout quarterfinals on Friday, 6 November, with the venue and kick-off time still to be confirmed.

The two sides last faced off in September at Dobsonville Stadium, where Da Cruz's men claimed a 3-2 victory courtesy of goals from Mfundo Vilakazi and Wandile Duba. Faiz Abrahams' superb free-kick was ultimately recorded as an own goal.

Hazem Mlhem |

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Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

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